Perhaps it’s Pinterest’s fault…months ago I started coming across photos of women with lovely, delicate ear piercings. Some had numerous, some just a few, but it got me thinking that this would be a fabulous way to get to wear more jewelry…petite raw diamond studs, perhaps a little diamond bar or hoop? Certainly nothing over-the-top — just tasteful with an urban bohemian flair. And then I noticed many of my friends (especially those in the jewelry business) had such creative combinations in their ears. But then, I also know that I’m the girl who faints during a routine blood test. Could I really do this? Then came last Wednesday night. There I was at the Women’s Jewelry Association Designers by the Bay event, and I got into a conversation about it with Laura Forst, from Aesthetic Movement, and a couple other jewelry designers who are also considering making the piercing leap. (side note: Laura’s ears full of diamonds are a beauty to behold.)
“What about this Saturday?” says Laura.
“What are you talking about?” I reply skeptically.
“I know the perfect place,” she says with a grin, “It’s Rose Gold’s Tattoo and Piercing in the Haight.”
I knew full well that I was available on Saturday.
I have never been to the Haight.
I’ve never been to a tattoo parlor.
Fast forward to Saturday.
I’m in the Haight, and I’m in a tattoo place.
Outside. My. Comfort. Zone. Oh my.
We got there right when it opened, so it was still pretty quiet, and we were able to peruse the earring selections. Now let me tell you, this is not like going to the mall where some 16 year-old girl gets out the piercing gun and shoots an ugly-colored Swarovski crystal into your ear. This is serious business. I couldn’t believe the selection of white, yellow, and rose gold options with various stones. (And I’m choosing to ignore the fact that I needed my cheaters to see everything in detail. Ha!)
And certainly there were some options that I was going to stay clear of.
Marie McCarthy, the lovely and knowledgeable owner, and my professional piercer, Perry Doig, helped with the selection. I knew I was in good hands. I ended up choosing a bezel-set opal and a little gold four-ball design stud.
Knowing that I’m a fainter (this cannot be emphasized enough!), I was thrilled to know that I would be laying down for this process. Still, my hands were clammy and my stomach was in knots.
The first step was to thoroughly clean my ear, and determine where the two piercings would go. He made sure to select locations that were spaced far enough from my original piercing so that I could still wear my regular earrings of different sizes. He also took care to select what would work best with the curves of my ear. I could tell that he’s done this more than once before!
Soon Perry had me doing some breathing exercises, and was calmly talking me through the whole process. He let me go at my own pace and was a consummate professional. I didn’t even have to lay eyes on the needle or other tools he used, which certainly worked for me! I also cannot tell you how conscientious this establishment is with cleanliness. (10 points for that!)
Just a few pinches and NO blood later (at least that I saw), it was all done!
I think the photos he took and put up on Instagram turned out cool. He’s such a cutie!
I was surprised to learn about the after-care as well. I recall twisting my original piercings and cleaning them with rubbing alcohol back in the day. But apparently this isn’t the best treatment now. Instead, I’m not to touch my new earrings at all. I need to use a saltwater ear bath for 5 minutes twice a day, and use a saltwater spray a few times a day. Here’s a link to the directions. Interesting! And then in 6-8 weeks, I’ll go back to get shorter backs put on the earrings. Currently, they have long posts to allow for swelling.
Since Laura was so amazing with me during this whole process, she treated herself to a new tattoo that she’s been wanting.
Do you know what this is the symbol for?
Then, it was definitely time to relax and enjoy, so we went across to Magnolia Pub & Brewery for a delicious brunch. (The croque madame was deelish!)
What a fun adventure! Thanks so much to Laura, Perry and Marie for everything…and I can’t wait to start my new little earring collection!
19 thoughts on “A Tale of Two Piercings”
Love this post, Amy! I got my second hole done in Vegas during Couture for the same reason. Love all the delicate studs I can combine! I also love the look of some of the cartilage piercings I have seen but I think the jewelry options are more limited and the healing time is much longer. I’m definitely putting a visit to Rose Gold on my list now!
I’m so glad you enjoyed my adventure, Liz! I, too, had originally been thinking about a piercing higher up, in the cartilage, but you’re right–much longer healing time. I know you will love Rose Gold’s, and I look forward to seeing what you decide to do! 🙂
Thank you so much for all the kind words, Amy! It was an absolute honor assisting with your piercings. You two are always welcome in our studio. I’m more than happy to welcome you to the Rose Gold’s family.
It looks great, Amy!! I’m definitely making a note about Rose Gold. My 8 year old daughter is already asking me about getting her ears pierced! Looks like a great place to do it!! What a fun blog post 😉
Amy, so much fun! I love your story, & combined with your great photos, I felt like I was there with you! Now we all know what we can buy for you! Sea Glass stud earrings in all of the colors of the rainbow!
Love this post, Amy! I got my second hole done in Vegas during Couture for the same reason. Love all the delicate studs I can combine! I also love the look of some of the cartilage piercings I have seen but I think the jewelry options are more limited and the healing time is much longer. I’m definitely putting a visit to Rose Gold on my list now!
I’m so glad you enjoyed my adventure, Liz! I, too, had originally been thinking about a piercing higher up, in the cartilage, but you’re right–much longer healing time. I know you will love Rose Gold’s, and I look forward to seeing what you decide to do! 🙂
Thank you so much for all the kind words, Amy! It was an absolute honor assisting with your piercings. You two are always welcome in our studio. I’m more than happy to welcome you to the Rose Gold’s family.
Thanks, Perry! It was a wonderful adventure! 🙂
It looks great, Amy!! I’m definitely making a note about Rose Gold. My 8 year old daughter is already asking me about getting her ears pierced! Looks like a great place to do it!! What a fun blog post 😉
Glad you enjoyed the article, Joanna!
Awesome! The new piercings look great, and you are brave!
Thanks, Rose. For me, I was brave…I know it would be a piece of cake for most people. 😉
LOVE! And I’ve known you long enough that I remember when you got the first ones ;).
Thanks so much, Megan! And yes, you certainly did know me when I got my original piercings!!
Wow! Your multiple piercings look so pretty and are in such good taste. I might be next! : ) c
Merci, Cate! I can definitely see you with more earrings, and I’ll go with you!
Such an awesome post, you’ve inspired me! Pinterest gets us into all sorts of trouble, doesn’t it? 🙂
Thanks so much, Brittany! Glad to be of inspiration! And yes…Pinterest is evil and fab at the same time. 😉
Amy, so much fun! I love your story, & combined with your great photos, I felt like I was there with you! Now we all know what we can buy for you! Sea Glass stud earrings in all of the colors of the rainbow!
I’m glad you enjoyed the post, Bev! xo
Amy,
Great adventure! I have never had my ears pierced, so you are much braver than I. Looks great!
Peggy
Peggy…my mom was 70 when she got hers pierced–it’s never too late! 🙂
I’m so proud of you, Amy!!! Loved your article and pictures